SOME Hampshire drivers will have to use a 35-mile-long detour this month due to work being carried out on the A3.
The closures are taking place during essential resurfacing work on the southbound carriageway of the A3.
The closed section will run between Petersfield (junction with the A272) and the A3M junction 2, Horndean (Hazelton Interchange with B2149).
A large diversion route of 35 miles has been announced, which will be in effect while the work takes place.
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National Highways states the diversion route will be "via A272 west towards West Meon Hut, A32 south towards Fareham, A27 east through Porchester & Cosham, and A3 London Rd/Portsmouth Rd north via Purbrook, Waterlooville and Cowplain to A3M Junction 2."
Traffic in the area is expected to be busy and road users are being asked to plan their journeys and allow extra time to travel.
The first closure is scheduled to begin on Friday, October 11 at 9pm and conclude on Monday, October 14 at 6am.
Meanwhile, the second closure will begin on Friday, October 25 at 9pm and conclude on Monday, October 28 at 6am.
Project Manager Joe Cairns, from National Highways, said: “We understand the impact this may have on local communities but we plan our work carefully to try and minimise disruption, that's why we are carrying this work out over two weekends when traffic is at its lightest.
"There will be an impact and a degree of disruption which we apologise for, but the alternative would be to have this work taking place intermittently over six or seven-week period which would require numerous closures and significantly more disruption and hassle for local people.
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“The last thing we want is people stuck in their cars when they could be doing something better with their weekend. So, my advice is to avoid travelling around the closed section if you can. If your journey is necessary, I would urge road users to stick to the signed diversion route and allow additional time to complete their journeys.
"For those travelling south from further afield, please plan your journey ahead, and look for an alternative route, such as the M3.
“This short term inconvenience will deliver long-term benefits for drivers who use this stretch of the A3.”
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